9M39 "Igla" portable air defense complex entered
service in USSR Armed Forces in 1983. It is intended to fight against low
flying air targets in good visibility conditions. "Igla" is battalions
and lower subdivisions or tactical groups frontline air defense complex.
In NATO countries it is known as SA - 16.

"Igla" is fitted with dioptrical sight which is
used to notice and to track target. It is used to find range target's and
to insert overtaking angle.

Sights body has indicator signalizing when target is
intercepted by guided warhead.

"Igla" portable air defense missile complex is
used on helicopters as an air - to - air missile as well. Usually missiles
in launching devices are hanged by two or four on helicopter's hardpoints.
A number of missiles depends from combat mission.